Protesting Prison Officers to Receive Payments by February 17th
The government has promised prison officers, who protested on Monday, that their long-overdue payments will be made by February 17th. National Security Minister Sir Steadroy Benjamin intervened during the protest to deliver this assurance.
Junior prison officers gathered outside His Majesty’s Prison (HMP) to voice their grievances, primarily concerning overdue payments and staffing issues.
The officers expressed their frustration with the repeated empty promises regarding their salary increments, with the latest deadline set for November 1, 2024.
This situation arises from a Cabinet decision that approved a $400 monthly salary increase for junior officers, effective November 1, 2024.
However, Superintendent of Prisons Trevor Pennyfeather raised concerns that this increase would bring junior officers within $100 of senior officers’ salaries, calling this situation “untenable.” He recommended a broader salary adjustment that is estimated to cost less than $10,000 in total.
The junior staff emphasized the excessive workload they face. While senior officers often avoid working during public holidays or long shifts, junior officers are under immense pressure, sometimes required to work back-to-back shifts without adequate rest.
They are tasked with supervising as many as 250 inmates with just two officers on duty.
Pennyfeather mentioned to Antigua.news that he is pleased the junior staff have returned to work and are now awaiting the promised payments.
This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2025/02/04/protesting-prison-officers-to-receive-payments-by-february-17th. © 2025 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.
About the author
The Editorial Staff refers to all reporters employed by Antigua.news. When an article is not an original creation of Antigua.news—such as when it is based on a press release, other media articles, letters to the editor, or court decisions—one of our staff members is responsible for overseeing its publication.
Read our editorial standards and corrections policy. Spotted an error? Contact the newsroom.
More from Antigua and Barbuda
View section
VIDEO: Victory Centre Pleads for Public Help as Thieves Target Special Needs School Again
Just hours after celebrating the handover of a hydroponics project, Victory Centre was dealt another setback when an individual was captured on camera uprooting lettuce grown by students.
By Cory Wayland
Victory Centre and Cedar Grove Primary Mark Handover of Hydroponics System and Nursery
School gardening project brings students and teachers together to develop practical agricultural skills following a journey that began in 2024.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
Remove Abandoned Vessels by October 28 or Face Cleanup Costs, Fisheries Division Warns
Final notice gives owners two weeks to clear derelict boats, vehicles and fishing gear from the Point Wharf Fisheries Complex.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
VIDEO: Senator Jamilla Kirwan Breaks Silence on Childhood Sexual Abuse During Senate Debate
Independent Senator Jamilla Kirwan shares a painful childhood experience while urging stronger penalties and greater support for survivors of sexual abuse.
By Cory Wayland
Comments (1)
Stone February 4, 2025, 6:06 PM